AN understrength Heworth 'A' gave a brave performance in a 36-6 defeat at Hunslet Warriors 'A' in Yorkshire League division three.

Heworth conceded ten early points but showed great character to prevent the hosts from adding to their score in a well-contested first half in which Rob Ainsworth and Kevin Gott starred with outstanding efforts.

The York side then shocked the Warriors after the restart when player-coach Lee Clarke crashed over following good play by Carl Potter, Gary Watkinson goaling.

But Hunslet seized control as Heworth tired and their numerical advantage took its toll as they added a late flurry of points.

Joe Murphy, Graeme Brown and Sean Brough epitomised Heworth's team spirit.

Updated: 09:34 Tuesday, January 10, 2006